Ripe – Australian Produce

Restaurant/cafe

Again in Sassafras, this gem of a place is a haven for foodies who travel from near and far to sample the delights of the food store and cafe. Housed in what appears as a rustic dwelling, it is set back from the street without a sign, but any local can tell you where to find it. Inside is a wood-panelled space with floor-to-ceiling shelves of preserves and wines, and a conglomeration of seating: a large communal table by the fireplace, smaller tables squeezed into nooks and crannies, and a large deck out the back where magenta rhododendrons bloom in spring. The menu is handwritten each day and features soups, pastas, more substantial dishes, cakes and hot chocolate made with Lindt chocolate.